Electric switch



g- 10, 1943- A. w. KRIEGER I 2,326,232

ELECTRIQ SWITCH Filed, Nov. 16, 1942 Ukgl 5 Sheets-Sheet l 69 in. .0 'I/ a I h f I 94 24 i e" 95 Filed Nov. 16, 1942 5 Sheets-Sheet 2 1943- A. w. KRIEGER 2,326,232

ELECTRIC SWITCH Filed Nov. 16, 1942 SSheets-Sheet 5 Aug. I A. w. KRIEGER ,32

ELECTRIC swiwca Filed Nov. 16, 1942 5 Sheets-Sheet 4 Aug. 10, v1943. A. w. KRIEGER ELECTRIC SWITCH 5 sheets-sheet 5 'Filed NOV. 16, 1942 Patented Aug. 10, 1943 UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE ELECTRIC SWTTCH Alvin W. Krieger, Milwaukee, Wis., assignor to Cutler-Hammer, Inc., Milwaukee, wis a corporation of Delaware Application November 16, 1942. Serial No. 465,747

19 Claims.

I tively simple construction which may be readily and quickly assembled, and the assembled parts of which are not likely to get out of order.

Another object is to provide a snap switch mechanism of relatively high capacity, the parts of which may be assembled and inserted as a unit into an insulating enclosing and supporting casing of suitable form, and readily removed from the casing for inspection or replacement.

Another object is to provide a snap switch mechanism of the aforementioned character adapted for use of a relatively small number of substitute parts to afford a number of different mechanical operating and electrical characteristics.

. Another object isto provide such a snap switch mechanism adapted for mounting and use either individually or in conjunction with an auxiliary snap switch mechanismof somewhat similar character within an insulating enclosing and supporting casing of suitable form.

Another and more specific object is to provide a snap switch mechanism which is particularly well adapted for use upon airplanes-as a microphone switch, as a gunfire control switch, as a bomb release switch, or as a combination of switches having a plurality of such functions.

Another object is 'to provide novel forms of insulating supporting casings for electric snap switch mechanism of the character aforementioned. I

Another object is to provide novel means for relieving strains upon the terminal portions of the circuit wires associated with such switches.

Another object is to provide switches of the aforementioned character and novel forms of insulating enclosing and supporting casings there for whereby manual operation thereof is facilitated.

Another object is to provide a novel form of thumb-operated auxiliary switch and a, novel form of insulating supporting member therefor.

Various other objects and advantages of the invention will hereinafter appear.

The accompanying drawings illustrate certain embodiments of the invention which will now be described, it being understood that the'embodiments illustrated are susceptible of modification in respect of certainstructural' details thereof without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

with the switch the switch mechanism shown in Fig.'1certain portions thereof being shown in side elevation for purposes of illustration.

Fig. 3 is a transverse section, on the line 3-3 of Fig. 1, showing the strain relief for the terminal wires. I

Fig. 4 is a vertical sectional view of the switch casing, at right angles to that 01' Fig. lthe switch unit being shown in elevation.

Fig. 5 ma perspective view, in separated relation, of certain parts of the switch unit shown in Figs. 1 to-4.

Fig. 6 is a side elevational view (approximately half-scale) of'a pistol grip insulating casing for enclosing and supporting a main switch unit, most of the parts of which are identical with the parts of the switch of Figs. 1 to 5, and an auxiliary switch mechanism having a pushbutton operable by the thumb of the hand which efiects operation of said main switch. d

Fig. 7 is a vertical sectional view, actual size, of the main body of the insulating casing and the main switch carried thereby-the insulating cover member and the partsof the auxiliary switch carried thereby being shown in perspective.

' Fig. 9 is another perspective view of the insu-- lating cap or cover member and its auxiliary switch parts shown in Fig. 7-.

Fig. 10 is a sectional view, on the line Ill-J0 of Fig. 9the auxiliary switch parts being in elevation in their normal circuit interrupting positions.

Fig. 11 is a. view quite similar to Fig. lO -but parts shown in section in their circuit-completing positions.

Fig. 12 is a fragmentary sectionarview, on the line |2-|2 of Fig. 9assuming the insulating cap to have been turned approximately degrees.

Fig. 13 is a fragmentary view, partly in section and partly in elevation, to better illustrate the relationship of the biasing spring to they pushbutton and of the latter to the insulating cap.

Fig. 14 is .a top plan view of the pushbutton of the auxiliary switch.

enclosing casing, including a different form of insulating cover or cap; an associated handstrap and a cordstrain relief being also illustrated.

Fig. 17 is a view, partly in elevation and partly in section, looking upward toward the device of Fig. 16.

Fig. 18 is a front elevational view of lating cap of Figs. 16 and 17, and

Fig. 19 is a rear elevational view of the cap of Fi 18.

Referring first to the switch shown in Figs. 1 to 5, the numeral 25 designates the main body portion of a transversely divided molded insulating casing, the cap or cover section of which is designated by numeral 26. Portion 25 is provided with a relatively large substantially rectangular recess 2lpreferably of substantially greater transverse width than thickness. The portion 25 and cap 26 are preferably of approximately elliptical contour in transverse cross secthe insution, as best illustrated in Fig. 3, to provide for convenient gripping'thereof by hand-but portion 25 is of gradually reduced size below the lower end wall of recess 21- to provide the lower end or extension 28 of substantially rectangular contour. End 28 isprovided with a symmetrically located, relatively narrow, downwardly opening, rectangular recess 23 (Figs. 1 and 4) which is adapted'to receive with a rather close fit the correspondingly shaped end or extension (not shown) of a lever or other support. End 28 is provided with alined circular openings 30 and 3i which communicate with. recess 29the relatively larger threaded opening 30 being adapted to accommodate the correspondingly threaded enlarged end portion 32 of a bolt, whose smooth shank portion of smaller diameter isv accommodated by opening 3|, as shown in Fig. 4. The aforementioned end or extension (not shown) of the lever is likewise provided with an alined opening to accommodate said shank, whereby the insulating casing 25, 26 may be attached to-the lever. .I prefer to provide shank 33 with a transverse opening or passage 34, which is adapted to be positioned as illustrated to receive a cotter pin or other fastening means (not shown) to prevent I accidental displacement of said bolt.

Casing portion 25 is'provided with an angular passage 35 of circular cross section which extends from one side thereof just above the shank 33 of the bolt and opens to the lo 'er end wallnf recess 21 (Figs. 1 and 4) to accommodate a two-wire conductor cord 36 (see Fig. 3). Portion 25 is provided in its flat upper end with a pair of threaded recesses 31 and 38. (Fig. l) with either of which the respective clearance passages 39 and 40 in cap 26 are adapted to be alined. The shanks of a pair of like bolts 41, 4| penetrate openings 39 and 40 and take into the tapped recesses 31 or 38 respectively to secure cap 26 to portion 25; cap- 26 preferably being provided with countersink 42 and 43 (Fig. 1) toaccommodate the heads of bolts 4|.

Cap 26 is provided with a relatively large, centrally located opening 44 which is adapted to provide sliding clearance for the insulating DLlShbutton 45 which serves as the manual operating member of the switch.

The switch unit, which is best illustrated in Fig. 2, comprises a pair of molded insulating members 46 and 41 of substantially similar rectangular contour in horizontal cross section; the dimensions of member 41 preferably being slightly less than those of member 46. The lower face of member 46 is adapted to seat against the connecting portion 48 ofa punched and stamped sheet metal frame of substantially inverted U- shape (see Fig. 5), said connecting portion 48 having a pair of tapped openings 49 and 50, and member 45 having a pair of passages 5| and 52 alined therewith to provide clearance for the shanks of a pair of screws or bolts 53, 53, the heads of which are accommodated in countersinks 54 and 55 in the upper surface of said member. The countersinks 54 and 55 are preferably filled with a suitable insulating wax or cement to cover the heads of screws 53 and to preventaccidental loosening thereof, as shown in Fig. .3.

Said frame is provided with a, relatively large substantially rectangular opening, thus forming in the frame an upwardly opening notch, the portion 56of which extends acrossthe connecting portion 48, and the. portions 51 and 58 of which extend downwardly throughout the major portion of the length of the parallel arms 59 and 60 of said frame. Arms 59 and are provided adjacent the lower ends thereof with pairs of opposed notches GI, 52 and 63, 54 opening to the respective notch portions 51 and 58 aforementioned; the alined pairs of notches GI, 53 and 62, 64 in the frame arms forming open pivotal bearings for the pairs of lugs and 66 formed integrally with each of the like pairs of contactor members 61, 61. Thus the lugs 65, 66 extend laterally from the edges of the channel-shaped portions 68, 38 of members 61; which portions are I oscillatable between and are guided by the inner surfaces of the frame arms.

Prior to attachment of member 45 to said metal frame the lugs of the respective contactor members are positioned within said pairs of alined pivotal bearings, as shown in Fig. 2, with the tips 69, 69 (which are spot-welded, brazed or otherwise rigidly secured to members 61, 61) facing outwardly or away from each othe Also prior to such assembly, the inverted i-shaped machined metal member has its shank 10, of circular cross section, insertedupwardly between the arms 59 and of the-frame through the centrally located circular opening H in insulating member 46the head portion 12 being simultaneously moved upwardly between the adjacent faces of contactor members 61, 61.

Thereupon the hollow molded insulating bushing or ferrule 13 is slid downward over shank 10, said bushing having a flange 14 which seats against the upper face of member 46 and a cylindrical extension 15 which'fits snugly with a recess or countersink 16 (Fig. 2) in said upper face. A substantially cylindrical coiled compression spring 11 has its lower end seated against the upper face of flange 14. A portion of shank 10 adjacent the upper end thereof is provided upon its periphery with alternate grooves and ridges Hi-as by a suitable rolling operation, to enlarge the peripheral size of that portion. Theaforementioned molded insulating pushbutton 45 is provided with a centrally located cylindrical recess to freely recess the extreme upper end 2,326,232 portion M of shank 18, while accommodating with a press fit the portion 180i said shank.

Pushbutton 45 is provided at its lower end with a relatively large cylindrical recess 82 which is preferably of suilicient length or depth to accommodate spring 11 in the fully compressed condition of the latter-the end wall of recess 82 being adapted to abut or engage the upper end of spring 11 to effect a predetermined degree of compression of the latter when the parts are in assembled position, and with the switch in its normal or off position, as shown in Fig. 2.

Afterassembly of pushbutton 45 to shank 18,

I prefer to drill a recess 83 which extends diametrically through the major portion of said button and through portion 8| of shank 18. A pin 84 of shorter length than said recess is freely insertable therelnto, whereupon the remain ing length of said recess is filled with a suitable cement or the like, as shown at 85 to retain the pin in position. In this manner button 45 is positively locked against movement relatively to shank 18.

As best" illustrated in Fig. '2, the head portion 12 of said sheet metal member is of slightly greater length than the width of notch 56 in the frame, so that said head portion is adapted to abut the inner surface of the connecting portion of the frame in the normal positions of the switch parts-to which they are biased by spring 11. Head 12 is provided with a cylindrical passage"86 which'is adapted to accommodate with a sliding fit a pair of like hollow cylindrical insulating members 81, 81 having closed outer ends 88, 88 of hemispherical contour. A coiled compression spring 89 is slidably fitted into the ad- Jacent hollow ends of members 81, 81 and acts to bias the latter away from each other.

. With the parts assembled in the manner thus far described members 81, 81 and spring 89 may be freely inserted into passage 86 by folding one of the contactor members 61 inwardly by movement thereof about its pivots,-whereupon the low er ends of both of the contactor members 6-1, 61 may be pivotally moved outwardly to the extreme positions thereof permitted by the connecting portion 48 ofthe frame-with resultant camming of the hemispherical ends 88, 88 downwardly beyond the pivotal centers of said contactor members (against the bias of both springs 89 and 11)so that the assembled parts will be held against accidental separation.

As best illustrated in Fig. the arms.59 and 68 of the metal frame are respectively provided.

with integral lugs 98 and 9I bent inwardly at substantially right angles theretosald lugs each. having a tapped opening (as shown at 82 in Fig. 5) to accommodate the shanks of a pair of screws 93, 98 which extend upwardly through openings provided in the second insulating member 41 aforementioned; said openings having countersinks to accommodate the heads of screws 93, 93, and the portions of said counterslnks unoccupied by the screwheads being filled with a suitable insulating wax or cement to form an insulating covering for'the heads and to prevent accidental loosening of the screws.

Insulating member 41 has attached to the lower surface thereof, as by rivets 94, 94 a pair of like combined contact and terminal members 95, 95. The contact portions 95, 96 of said members extend upward 'at an angle slightly greater than a. right angle to the respective terminal portions. thereof (see Fig. 2)-member 41 being provided from surface I 88, -are a pair of ledges, one of which is shown at at I in Figs. 1 and 2.

Contact portions 96, 96 have rigidly attached to their inner surfaces, as by spot-welding or otherwise, the contact tips 69, 69, for co-operation with the aforementioned tips 69, 69 upon contactor members 61; 61.

In assembling insulating member 41 (with its attached parts) to the metal frame, the lower end of one of the contactor members 61 is positioned between one of the contact portions 96 and a vertical wall (say, 91) formed by the integral upward extension 98 of member 41. The other (left-hand, Fig. 2) contactor 61 pivotally moved inwardly .to clear the-other contact portion 96-member 41 being at the same time moved upwardly, so that saidleft-hand contactor 61 upon continued inward movement will abut or engage the other vertical wall 99 formed upon extension 98. The walls 91, 99 thusact to limit the. inward movement of the contactors 61, 61; whereas the contact portions 96, 96, with their attached tips, limit the outward or circuit-completing movements of the contactors. jointly.

Extension 98 is provided at its upper end with a flat surface I88 (Fig. 2) which is adapted to be engaged by the flat lower face of the aforementioned head 12 to limit downward movement of the latter and of the spring-pressed plungers 81, 81 carried thereby. Offset downward and arranged on opposite sides I8I in Fig. 1, against which the. respective inwardly bentframe lugs 98 and 9I are adapted to seat. Upon attachment of member 46 to the metal frame by screws 93, 93 all of the switch parts will be maintained in properly assembled relation. The members 95, have, tapped openings in their terminal portions to accommodate the shanks of binding screws I82, I82 of well known form.

Member 41 has formed integrally with its lower surface a substantially rectangular downward extension I88, and the same and the upward extension 98 have formed therein a common recess I84 (Fig. 2 )which recess is open on opposite sides of the lower end portion thereof, as shown The arrangement illu trated provides for production ofv member 41 by a straight-line molding operation, and ailords the bridge portion I86 which may be utilized as a snubber orstrain relief for the individually insulated wires I81 and I88 of said conductor cord 36-the bared and looped ends of which wires are adapted to be clamped by the respective screws I 82, as shown indotted lines at II8 and III in Fig. 3., Thus the cord I89 with the individual wire portions I81 and I88 may be inserted upwardly through opening 35 (Fig. 4) and a suilicient length thereof extended beyond the upper end of recess 21 in section 25 of the casing, for wiringof the switch.

As shown in Fig. 3 the wire I 81 is led in one direction around th inner surface of bridge porrecess 21 in either of two positions-the cord 36 being pulled in a reverse direction through said passage 35, Fig. 4.

As shown in Figs. 1, 3 and 4 recess 21 is provided at the mid-width of each of its four walls with ribs H2, H3, H4 and N5 of gradually increasing thickness from the upper end of said recess to the lower. The main purpose of said ribs is to provide a fairly close fit of both insulating members 46 and 41 within said recess, while substantially avoiding any tendency toward wedging' or sticking of said parts in the event of warpage of the molded section 25.

As shown in Figs. 1 and 4, the switch unit is adapted to fit into recess 21 with the fiat lower face of the bridge I06overlying the upper end of passage 35 and seated against the flat end wall of said recess. In such relationship of the parts the flat upper surface of insulating member 46 is positioned slightly below the flat upper end of section 25. In order to resiliently retain the switch unit against movement or rattling within recess 21, I prefer to provide a pair of diagonally disposed'cylindrical rubber members II6 (Fig. 1) and III (Fig. 4) which have portions of their length positioned and cemented within corresponding shaped recesses (not shown) in the fiat lower face of cap 26-the projecting portions of members H6 and I I1 being initially greater than th space between cap 26 and insulating member 46, so that upon tightening of assembling screws 4|, 4| said rubber members are compressed to effectively hold the switch unit against bodily movement or rattling within the insulating cas- The molded various insulating members hereing disclosed are preferably composed of Bakelite molding powder, or a similar hot molded As aforeindicated the switch mechamaterial. nism is normally biased to circuit-interrupting position by the spring II-the switch being closed upon a predetermined degree of inward movement of button 45, and so long as said button is held in. As will be understood the circuit is adapted to extend from one terminal to the other through the metal frame when the contacts are engaged by the contactors. For this reason I prefer to form the frame, the contactors and the combined contact and terminal members of a highly conductive metal, such as brass.

' Although I have herein referred to "upper and lower elements or surfaces for convenience in description, it is, of course, to be understood that such termshave no necessary reference to the manner in which the switch unit may be positioned when in use.

with a centrally located passage I20 of circular cross section which opens to the lower face of member II8. Said passage is adapted to accommodate, with a sliding fit, the lower shank I38 of circular cross section which is formed integrally with the intermediate enlargement or head I2I of a machined metal member, which head isprovided with a transverse bore or passage to accommodate the insulating plungers 81, 01 and their associated spring 89. The upper shank I22 of said metal member is of the same circular cross sectional dimensions as the shank I0 aforedescribed, and is likewise adapted to slide within the passage II in member 46. Shank I22 is provided at its upper end with a reduced portion adapted to receive a washer I23 or the like of greater diameter than said shank-said reduced portion of the shank being upset over the washer, I

. interrupting position.

Although one of the combined contact and terminal members 95 is identical with those aforedescribed, the other member I26 differs in respect of having a relatively longer contact Portion I20 has attached thereto an additional tip 69 (Fig. 7) for cooperation with the contactor tip of the auxiliary switch mechanism hereinafter described.

The main body portion I29 of the pistol grip preferably comprises a one-piece member composed of Bakelite Ora-similar hot-molded insulating material. Member I29 is hollow, as illustrated--the same being provided with grooves opening to the flat end I30 thereof to freely receive the switch unit and to position the same with the outer end of part I3I of member I I8 in a plane substantially flush with the aforementioned fiat end I30 of body portion 29. Body portion I29 is provided at its upper end with an upwardly and laterally opening notch I32 which is .adapted to accommodate shank I22, spring In the modification illustrated in Figs. 6 to 14,

inclusive, I have shown a pistol grip form of molded insulating casing carrying a main switch unit, substantially like that aforedescribed, which is utilized for control of gunfire from an airplane, in combination with an auxiliary switch,

including a-thumb-operated pushbutton, for release of a bomb or bombs from the airplane at will.

. Thusthe parts of said main switch corresponding to the parts aforedescribed have been given like numerals of reference, such like parts serving in the manner aforedescribed-to perform the functions specified. However, due to the manner v aforedescribed-the extension II9 being provided I25 and the oscillatory trigger member I33, which. trigger is likewise composed of a suitable molded insulating material, such as Bakelite.

Said notch I32 has formed in its opposite side walls a pair of open pivotal bearings I34 and I35 of a depth slightly greater than the diameter of a pair of laterally extending cylindrical lugs (one of which is shown at I3I) which are formed in tegrally with member I33-by the molding operation.

Trigger member I 33 is provided at its outer upper edge with an integral transverse rib, or

, angled upper surface I 42 is engageable with cap I40 to limit counterclockwise movement of said member I33 when manually pressed. Lug I4I said fulcrum arms.

is provided at its lower surface with a fiat rib or extension I43 which overlies the upper edge insulating member 48 of the switch unit, whereby proper positioning or seating of the unit within portion I29 is insured when the switch parts are in idle or circuit-interrupting position.

Cap I40 is molded to the form best illustrated in Figs. 6, 7, 9 and -the same having a flat lower surface I44 which overlies the recessed upper end of pistol grip member I29 and the switch unit and trigger member carried thereby. The flat upper end I30 of member I29 is preferably provided with cylindrical projections I45 and I46 which surround the upper end portions of a pair of relatively deep threaded recesses I41 and I48 (Fig. 8) to accommodate the shanks of a pair of like securing screws, one of 'which is shown at I49 in Fig. 6. Cap I is provided in its lower face with a recess I50 of substantially rectangular contour-the side walls of said recess being arranged at a predetermined angle to surface I44 (see Figs. 7 and 9).

Recess I50 is provided with a ledge I5I (Fig. 12)a pair of metal inserts I52 and I53 being molded into the material of said cap and having reduced tubular .end portions projecting from said ledge. A punched and stamped sheet metal member has a perforated portion I54 seated upon said ledge-the tubular end of insert I52 being upset thereover to secure the same in position. As shown in Fig. 12. insert I52 is provided with a tapped recess I55 to accommodate the shank of a binding screw I02. A portion I56 is bent at a.'right angle to portion'l55, and a portion I51 -is bent at a right angle to portion I56, whereby portions I54 and I51 are positioned in substantially parallel planes. Portion I51 is provided with a rectangular notch I58 (Figs. 9 and 11) which forms upon portion I51 a pair of spaced fulcrum arms. A punched and stamped sheet metal contactor member I59 is provided .at opposite sides thereof with integral upwardly bent inverted U-shaped lugs I60 and I6l which are adapted to jointly bear against That portion I62 of member I59 which carries the tip 69 (for co-operation with the tip 69 on extension I28 of the main switch) is arranged at a predetermined angle to the main body thereof-to insure fiatwise engagement of said contact tips, as shown in Fig. 11. An inter-.

seated upon ledge I5Ithe tubular end of insert I53 being upset thereover to secure the same in position. The free end metal member is cut away or narrowed to provide an edge I61 which acts as an abutment to limit the degree of circuit-interrupting movement of portion I66 of said the control lever or stick member I59. Said member is provided at an" intermediate point in its length with a substantially hemispherical boss I68 (Fig. 10) which serves to center the lower end of a coiled compression spring I69. The other end of spring I69 is positioned within a recess I 10 in the lateral offset or extension I1I of a molded insulating pushbutton I12. The cylindrical portion of pushbutton I12 is slidable withinan opening I13 in cap I40a portion of said pushbuttonbeing normally projected outwardly at a predetermined angle to cap I 40, under the bias of spring I69, as best illustrated in Figs. 6 and 15. Extension I1I is adapted to engage the wall I14 (Fig. 13) of a recess in said cap to limit the degree of outward displacement of the pushbutton.

Pushbutton 112 is provided at a predetermined 1 point in its length with a diametrically extending cylindrical recess I15 (Figs. 11, 13 and 15), within which a hollow insulating plunger I16 is adapted to slide. Interposed between the end wall of recess I15 and'the closed end of plunger I16 is a coiled compression spring I11, which is adapted to bias said plunger outwardly against the aforementioned pivoted contactor member I 59. The arrangement is such that upon inward movement or depression of pushbutton I12 from the position shown in Fig. 10 to that shown in Fig. 11 member I59 will be pivotally moved with a quick or snap action to the circuit-completing position shown in Fig. 11. Conversely, upon manual release of pushbutton I12 the spring I69 will act to return the movable parts of said auxiliary switch to the relative positions thereof shown in Fig. 10the movement of member I59 to such circuit-interrupting position being likewise effected with a quick or snap action.

Referring more particularly to Fig. 6, it will be apparent that upon grasping the. pistol grip I29 in the right hand the operator may use his index finger for operation of trigger I33 for electrical control of a gun-firing mechanismwhereas the operator may also either alternately or simultaneously use his thumb for depression of pushbutton I12 for electrical control of a bomb-release mechanism.

As shown in Figs. '7 and 9, cap I 40 is provided on its flat inner surface I 44 with a pair of recesses or countersink I18 and I19 to accommodate the aforementioned cylindrical extensions I 45 and I46, to insure a good interlocking connection between the cap I40 and portion I29 of the pistol grip. Cap I40 is provided in its outer surface with countersinks I and I 8| to accommodate the heads of the securing screws.

As willbe understood, the main switch unit has a'pair of circuit wires attached thereto prior to insertion of the unit into the recess in pistol grip I 29a single wire being also attached to the terminal positioned in cap I40. With this arrangement it is obvious that the terminal member I26 of the main switch unit is common to the circuits controlled by both the main and auxiliary switches.

The pistol grip I 29 is preferably mounted upon of an airplane; and for this purpose said pistol grip is provided at its lower end with a cylindrical recess I82 (Fig. 7) which is adapted to accommodate with a rather close fit the hollow cylindrical upper end portion I83 of said lever. Pistol grip I29. and lever I83 are provided with diametrically .alined openings to accommodate a securing bolt of suitable form. Thus as shown the opening I 84 in member I 29 is of a size to accommodate the head I85 of the bolt; the opening I86 in said lever being adapted to accommodate the shank portion I81 of the bolt. As shown, the opening I-88 in lever I83 is preferably oi the same size as. opening I86, to provide clearance for the reduced and threaded portion I89 of said shank; and a resilient type of lock-nut I90 is molded in or otherwise rigidly secured to member I29, to receive, with a resilient locking connection the threaded portion I89 of the screw shank. In practice the three-wire cord required for the combination of switches extends upwardly through the hollow lever I83 and through the passage in pistol grip I29-suitable lengths of the individual wires being provided for attachment thereof to the respective terminals.

In Figs. 16 to 19 I have shown a bomb-release control switch mounted within a pistol grip type of insulating and supporting casing. The switch unit shown in dotted lines in Fig. 16 is preferably identical with the main switch unit shown in Figs. 7 and 8as indicated by the corresponding numerals upon the switch parts in Fig. 16. The molded insulating pistol grip I9I of Figs. 16 and 17 is substantially like that of Figs. 7 and 8, in respect of the switch-receiving end thereof-but the former is relatively shorter and lighter than the latter, for obvious reasons. The forward flat surface I92 of member I9I is preferably free from the cylindrical extensions shown in Figs. 7 and 8. The trigger I33 is pivotally mounted upon the pistol grip I9I in the manner shown in Figs. 7 and 8, and is adapted to effect operation of the switch unit in a like manner.

Inasmuch as an auxiliary switch mechanism is not required for the device of Figs. 16 and 17, a molded insulating cap of the character shown at I93 may be employed. Cap I93 preferably has the same external contour and dimensions as the cap I90 aforedescribed. However, cap I93 is merely recessed interiorly as shown at I99 in .Figs. 17 and 19 to minimize the weight thereof and to provide clearance for the auxiliary stationary contact (not shown) which normally forms a part of the switch unit, regardless of whether or not an auxiliary switch is employed. Cap I93 is provided with passages or openings I 95 and I9Bsaid openings having external countersinks I91 and I 91 to accommodate the heads of the aforedescribed securing screws I99, I99. Countersinks I99 and 209 (Fig. 19) are also preferably provided at the inner fiat face of cap I93, whereby thecap I99 may be substituted for the cap I90 in the device of Figs. 6 to 8, in the event that an auxiliary switch mechanism is not desired or required.

Pistol grip I9I is preferably substantially closed at its rear end--a circular opening 20I being provided to enable insertion of a conductor cord 202 into the same for wiring of the switch exteriorly of the pistol grip. After the switch has been wired and assembled with respect to pistol grip I9I the cord 202 is pulled outwardly therefrom to remove the excess length thereof-only a slight amount of slack being provided, as shown in Fig. 16. In order to provide a strain relief for the cord wires attached to the switch, a punched and stamped sheet metal member 203 is positioned within the recess in pistol grip I9I- member 203 being adapted to seat against the surface 209 of the end wall of the recess, said is preferably provided (Fig. 16) to accommodate the head of screw 201.

The pistol grip of Figs. 16 and 17 is preferably adapted to be strapped to the operators hand; and for this purpose I provide a punched and stamped sheet metal member, the flat portion 209 of which corresponds in contour with and is interposed between the adjacent fiat surfaces of cap I93 and pistol grip I9I; a flat punched insulating plate. 2I0 being preferably interposed between said flat portion 209 and pistol grip I9 I. Said flat portion is provided with a relatively large centrally located opening 2II of substantially elliptical contour, and insulating plate 2I0 is provided with an opening 2 I2 'of similar shape,

but of slightly smaller dimensions. The primary the switch. Portion 209 and plate 2I0 are provided with openings (see Fig. 17) to afford clearance for the shanks of the securing screws I49, I49.

Said flat portion 209 has offset therefrom a flat portion 2I3, which is provided with two elongated parallel openings 2| 4 and 2I5 (Fig. 17) through which a strap 2 IE, of woven material or the like, may be looped. Strap 2I6 has one end 2II permanentlyv attached to a buckle 2I8 of known form-the other end 2I9 of said strap being adjustable relatively to the buckle in a well known manner.

In use of the device, the operator inserts four fingers and the palm portion of one hand into the loop of the strap, which is then tightened to the desired degree around the palm. The operators fingers are then free to grasp the pistol grip and to effect operation of trigger I33; whereas dropping of the pistol grip from the operators hand is prevented by the strap 2I6 aforedescribed.

As aforeindicated, the cap I93 may be used with a pistol grip like I29 (of Figs. 6 to 8), where an auxiliary switch is not required. In like manner, the cap I40 of Figs. 6 to 15 may be employed with the pistol grip I9I of Figs. 16 and 17, where an auxiliary switch is desired or required; but with the strap 2I6 and its associated parts 209 and 2I0 omitted.

I claim: I

1. In an electric snap switch, in combination, a punched and stamped sheet metal frame of substantially U-shape, said frame having a relatively large substantially rectangular opening common to the connecting portion and the respective arm's thereof, the ends of said opening adjacent the lower ends of the respective arms having opposed pivot notches opening thereto, a pair of punched and stamped sheet metal contactor members each having a pair of integral pivot lugs, each pair of lugs being freely insertable into an'alined pair of said pivot notches in the respective arms of the frame, a molded insumember 203 when so seated, as shown in Fig.

lating member secured to'the outer face of the connecting portion of said frame, said insulating member having a pair of spaced downward projections formed integrally therewith, said projections being adapted to substantially fill the portions of said opening located within the respective arms to thereby close all of said pivot notches .whereby said contactor members are retained in assembled relation to said frame, an operating member carried by said insulating member and reciprocable relatively thereto, a pair of plungers carried by said operating member at the lower end thereof, a coiled compression spring interposed between said plungers to bias the same jointly against the respective contactor members, said plungers being adapted to effect movements of said contactor members jointly with a snap action to opposite extreme positions upon predetermined degrees of movement of said operating member in opposite directions respectively.

2. In an electric snap switch, in combination, a molded insulating member aving a centrally located opening formed therein, a metal member of substantially inverted T-Shape having its shank extending upwardly-through said opening, means attached to said shank after upward penetration of said opening totprovide a downwardly facing shoulder, a coiled compression spring interposed between the upper face of said insulating member and said shoulder to bias the lower end portion of said metal member toward the lower ,face of said insulating member, a punched and stamped sheet metal frame of substantially inverted U-shape, the connecting portion of said U being secured to the lower face of said insulating member, the latter having a pair of downwardly projecting, substantially rectangular extensions formed integrally therewith to accommodate and guide the lower end portion of said metal member, the arms and the connecting portion of said framebeing cut away to provide a relatively large upwardly opening slot for accommodation of said extensions whose outer sides are located in planes substantially flush with the outer surfaces of the respective arms, each arm having a pair of opposed pivot notches formed therein adjacent the lo'wer end thereof; a pair of sheet metal contactor memberseach of which has a pair of integral lugs adapted for support within the alin d pivot notches in the respective arms, said pivot notches being closed by the extensions of said insulating member, the lower end portion of said metal member having a passage formed therein, a pair of insulating plungers located within said passage, a coiled compression spring interposed between said plungers to bia the latter against the respective contactor members between the pivot lugs thereon, said plungers being movable jointly by said metal member across the lines of pivotal support of said contactor members to effect oscillatory snap movements of the latter in opposite directions respectively, stationary contacts associated with but insulated from said frame to limit the degrees of movement of said contactor members in one direction, and additional means associated with said frame to limit the riegrees of movement of said contactor members in the opposite direction.

3. In an electric snap switch, in combination, a molded insulating member having a centrally located opening formed therein, a metal member of substantially inverted T-shape having its shank extending upwardly through said opening,

meansattached to said shank after upward penetration of said opening to provide a downwardly facing shoulder, a coiled compression spring interposed between the upper face of said insulating member and said shoulder to bias the lower end portion of said metal member toward the lower face of said insulating member, a punched and stamped sheet metal frame of substantially inverted U-shape, the connecting portion of said U being secured to the lower face of said insureciprocable member across the plane ofpivotal lating member, the latter having a pair of downmodate and guide the lower end portion of said metal member, the arms and the connecting portion of said frame being cut away to provide a relatively large upwardly opening slot for accommodation of said extensions whose outer sides are located in planes substantially flush with the outer surfaces of the respective arms, each arm having a pair of opposed pivot notches formed therein adjacent the lower end thereof, a pair of sheet metal contactor members each of which has a pair of integral lugs adapted for support within the alined pivot notches in the respective arms, said pivot notches being closed by the extensions of said insulating member, the lower end portion of said metal member having a passage formed therein, a pair of insulating plungers located. within said passage, a coiled compression spring interposed between said plungers to bias the latter against the respective contactor members between the pivot lugs thereon, said plungers being movable jointly by said metal member across the lines of pivotal support of said contactor members to effect oscillatory snap movemerits of the latter in opposite directions respectively, stationary contacts associated with but insulated from said frame to limit the degrees of movement of said contactor members in one direction, additional means associated with said frame to limit ,the degrees of movement of said contactor members in the opposite direction, said last mentioned means comprising a second molded insulating member underlying said frame and secured thereto, said last mentioned member having saidstationary contacts rigidly secured thereto, and the same having spaced walls formed integrally therewith to act as limiting abutments for said contactor members when disengaged from said contacts.

' 4. In anielectrio switch, in combination, a punched and stamped sheet metal frame member of substantially inverted U-shape, the arms and the connectingportion of said U havin a common opening formed therein to provide a relatively large upwardly opening substantially rectangular notch in said frame, those portions of the opening adjacent the lower ends of the respective arms having opposed notches opening thereto, a pair of punched and stamped sheet metal contactors each having a pair of pivot lugs formed integrally therewith, the lugs of each pair being engageable with alined notches in the respective arms of said frame, a molded insulating member having a portion overlying said frame and secured thereto, said insulating meming therethrough, a reciprocable member extending upwardly through said opening, a pair of elements carried by said reciprocable member at the lower end thereof, a spring common to said elements for biasing the same jointly into engagement with the respective contactors, said elements being simultaneously movable by said support of said contactors to effect snap movements of the latter in opposite directions respectively, and a pair of stationary contacts adapted formed integrally therewith, thelugs of each pair being engageable with alined notches in the respective arms of said frame, a molded insulating member having a portion overlying said frame and secured thereto, said insulating member having a downwardly extending integral portion adapted to fit snugly within said first mentioned notch in said frame, said portion of said insulating member overlapping the open ends of the respective pairs of opposed notches to effect closure of the latter, whereby said contactors are retained in pivotally assembled relation to said frame, said insulating member having an opening therethrough, a reciprocable member extending upwardly through said opening, a pair of elements carried by said reciprocable member at the lower end thereof, a spring common to said elements for biasing the same jointly into engagement with the respective contactors, said elements being simultaneously movable by said reciprocable member across the plane of pivotal support of said contactors to effect snap movements ofthe latter in opposite directions respectively, the arms of said frame each having an integral lugat the lower end thereof bent at substantially a right angle thereto, a second insulating member underlying said last mentioned lugs and secured thereto, and a pair of combined stationary conment with the respective contactors, said elements being simultaneously movable by said reciprocablemember across the plane of pivotal support of said contactors to effect snap movements of the latter in opposite directions respec tively, the arms of said frame each having an integral lug at the lowerend thereof bent inwardly at substantially a right angle thereto, a second insulating member underlying saidlast mentioned lugs and secured thereto, a pair of combined stationary contact and terminal members secured to said last mentioned insulatin member into and out of engagement with which said contactors are movable jointly with a quick action, and spring means associated with said first mentioned insulating member and said reciprocable member to normallybias the latter in a direction to effect disengagement of said contactors from said contacts.

7. In an electric switch, in combination, a punched and stamped sheet metal frame member of substantially inverted U-shape, the arms and the connecting portion of said U having a common opening formed therein to providea relatively large upwardly opening substantially rectangular notch in said frame, those-portions of the opening adjacent the lower. ends of the respective arms having opposed notches opening tact and terminal members secured to said last mentioned. insulating member into and out of engagement with which said contactors are movable jointly with a quick action.

6. In an electric switch, in combination, a punched and stamped sheet metal frame member of substantially inverted U-shape, the arms'and the connecting portion of said U having a com .having a downwardly extending integral portion adapted to fit snugly within said first mentioned nptch in said frame, said portion of said insulating member overlapping the open ends of the respective pairs of opposed notches to effect closure of the latter, whereby said contactors are retained in pivotally assembled relation to said frame, said insulating member havingjan opening therethrough, a reciprocable member extend:

ing upwardly through said opening, a pair of elements carried by said reciprocable member at the lower end thereof, a spring common to said elements for biasing the same jointly into enga eg5 thereto, apair of punched and stamped sheet metal contactors each having apair of pivot lugs formed integrally therewith, the lugs of each pair being engageable with alined notches in the respective arms of said frame, a molded insulating member having a portion overlying said frame and secured thereto, said insulating member having a downwardly. extending integral portion adapted to fit snugly within said firstmentioned notch in said frame, said portion of said insulating member overlapping the open ends of the.

respective pairs of opposed notches to effect closure of the latter, whereby said contactors are retained in pivotally assembled relation to said frame, said. insulating member having anopening therethrough, a reciprocable memberextending upwardly through said opening, a pair of elements carried by said reciprocable member at the lower end thereof, a. spring common to said elements for biasing the same jointly into engagement with the respective contactors, said elements being simultaneously movable by said reciprocable member across the plane of pivotal support of said contactors to effect snap movements of the latter in opposite directions respectively, the arms of said frame each having an integral lug atthe lower end thereof bent inwardly at substantially a right angle thereto, a second insulating member underlying said last mentioned lugs and secured thereto, a pair of combined stationary contact and terminal members secured to said last mentioned insulating memher into and outof engagement with which said contactors are movable jointly with a quick action, spring means associated with said first mentioned insulating member and said reciprocable member to normally bias the latter in a direction to effect disengagement of said contactors from said contacts, and manually operable insulating means associated with the upper end of said reciprocable member to provide for a given degree of movement of the latter at will against the bias of said spring means, whereby engage-i ment of said contactors with said contacts jointly is eifected.

- 8. In an electric snap switch, in combination, a one-piece punched and stamped sheet metal frame of substantially U-shape in transverse cross section, the free ends of the arms of said U having lugs formed integrally therewith and bent at substantially right angles thereto, the arms of said frame having alined pairs of open pivotal bearings formed therein, a pair of sheet metal contactor members each having a pair of integral lugs freely insertable into the respective pairs of alined bearings, a molded insulating member secured to the connecting portion of said frame, said insulating member having portions overlapping the respective bearings to retain said contactor members in pivotal relation to said frame, a second molded insulating member secured to said frame lugs, a pair of combined stationary contact and terminal members secured to said last mentioned insulating member, an operating member reciprocable relatively to said first mentioned insulating member 'and having a portion located within said frame, a pair of plungers slidably carried by said portion of said operating member, a coiled compression spring interposed between said plungers to bias the same against the respective contactor members, said plungers being movable jointly across the pivotal axes of said contactor members to effect snap movement of the latter in opposite directions respectively, the stationary contact portions of said members aforementioned limiting movement of said contactor members in one direction, and said second insulating members having integral portions to limit movement of said contactor members in the reverse direction.

9. In an electric snap switch, in combination} a one-piece punched and stamped sheet metal frame of substantially U-shape in transverse cross section, the free ends of the arms of said U having lugs formed integrally therewith and bent at substantially right angles thereto, the arms of said frame having alined pairs of open pivotal bearings formed therein, a pair of sheet metal contactor members each having a pair of integral lugs freely insertable into the respec: tive pairs of alined bearings, a molded insulating member secured to the connecting portion of said frame, said insulating member having portions overlapping the respective bearings to retain said contactor members in pivotal relation to said frame, a second molded insulating member secured to said frame lugs, a pair of combined stationary contact and 'terminalmembers secured to said last mentioned insulating member, an operating member reciprocable relatively to said first mentioned insulating member and having a portion located within said frame, a pair of plungers slidably carried by said portion of said operating member, a coiled compression spring interposed between said plungers to bias the same against the respective contactor members, said plungers being movable jointly across the pivotal axes of said contactor members to effect snap movement of the latter in opposite directions respectively, the stationary contact portions of said members aforementioned limiting movement of said contactor members in one direction. said second insulating member having integral portions to limit movement of said contactor members in the reverse direction, said operating member having a shoulder formed thereon at a predeterminedpoint exteriorly of said first mentioned insulating member, and a coiled compression spring interposed between the latter and said shoulder, to thereby normally bias said operating member and said contactor members in one direction to given extreme positions thereof.

10. In an electric snap switch mechanism, in combination, a pair of molded insulating members, a one-piece punched and stamped sheet metal frame member to which said insulating members are rigidly secured in spaced relationship to each other, said frame including a pair of substantially parallel arms, said arms having two pairs of alined pivot bearings formed therein, a pair of punched and stamped sheet metal contactor members each having a pair of integral lugs positioned within the respective pairs of alined pivot bearings, one of said insulating members having an opening therethrough, an operating member having a shank portion recipro-cable within said opening and an enlarged end portion positioned within said frame, said frame co-operating with said end portion to limit the degree of movement of said operating member in one direction, said end portion having a transverse passage formed therein, a pair of insulating plungers slidably positioned within said passage, a coiled compression spring interposed between said plungers whereby the latter are continuously biased against the respective contactor members, a pair of combined contact and terminal members rigidly secured to the other of said insulating members, said contactor members being jointly movable with a snap action into and out of engagement with said contact members upon movement of said operating member in opposite directions respectively, said last mentioned insulating member having a part formed integrally therewith to limit the degree of movement of said operating member in the opposite direction and to limit the degree of disengaging movement of each of said contactor members, and means comprising a coiled compression spring interposed between said first mentioned insulating member and a part of said operating member to bias the latter for movement in the direction thereof first mentioned.

11. In an electric snap switch mechanism, in combination, a pair of molded insulating members, a one-piece punched and stamped sheet metal frame member to which said insulating members are rigidly secured in spaced relationship to each other, said frame including a pair of substantially parallel arms, said arms having two pairs, of alined pivot bearings formed therein, a pair of punched and stamped sheet metal contactor members each having a pair of integral lugs positioned Within the respective pairs of alined pivot bearings, one of said insulating members having an opening therethrough, an operating member having a shank portion recip rocable within said opening and an enlarged end portion positioned within said frame, said frame co-operating with said end portion to limit the degree of movement of said operating member in one direction, said end portion having a transverse passage formed therein, a pair of insulating plungers slidably positioned within said passage, a coiled compression spring interposed between said plungers whereby the latter are continuously biased against the respective contactor members, a pair of combined contact and terminal members rigidlysecured to the other of said insulating members, said contactor members being jointly movable with a snap action into and outof engagement with said contact members upon movement of said operating member in opposite directions respectively, said last mentioned insulating member having a part formed integrally therewith to limit the degree of movement of said operating member in the opposite direction and to limit the degree of disengaging movement of each of said contactor members, means comprising a coiled compression spring interposed between said first mentioned insulating member and a part of said operating member to bias the latter for movement in the direction thereof first mentioned, and a manually operable insulating member associated with said operating member to efiect movement thereof at will against the bias of said coiled compression spring last mentioned.

12. In an electric snap switch mechanism, in combination, a pair of m'olded insulating members, a one-piece punched and stamped sheet metal frame member to which said insulating members are rigidly secured in. spaced relationship to each other, said frame including a pair of substantially parallel arms, said arms having two pairs of alined pivot bearings formed therein, a pair of punched and stamped sheet metal contactor members each having a pair of integral lugs positioned within the respective pairs of alined ipivot bearings, one of said insulating members having an opening therethrough, an operating member having a shank portion reciprocable within said opening and an enlarged end portion positioned within said frame, said frame co-operating with said end portion to limit the degree of movement of said operating member in one direction, said end portion having a transverse passage formed therein, a pair of insulating plungers slidably positioned within said passage, a coiled compression spring interposed between said plungers whereby the latter are continuously biased against the respective contactor members, a pair of combined contact and terminal members rigidly secured to the other of said insulating members, said contactor members being jointly movable with a snap action into and out of engagement with said contact members upon movement of said operating memmembers are rigidly secured in spaced relationship to each other, said frame having two pairs of alined pivot bearings formed therein, a pair of punched and stamped sheet metal contactor 5 members each having a pair of integral lugs poher in opposite directions respectively, said last mentioned insulating member having a part formed integrally therewith to limit the degree of movement of said operating member in the opposite direction and to limit the degree of disengaging movement of each of said contactor members, means comprising a coiled compression spring interposed between said first mentioned insulating member and a part of said operating member to bias the latter for movement in the direction thereof first mentioned, one of said combined contact and terminal members having an auxiliary stationary contact rigidly connected thereto and projecting therefrom, an auxiliary switch mechanism including a pivoted contactor member, an insulating support for said contactor member separate from said insulating members aforementioned, manually operable means associated with said insulating-support,and springbiased to a given position with respect to the latter to provide for oscillatory movement of said last mentioned contactor member at will into and out of engagement with said auxiliary stationary contact, said last mentioned means including a spring-biased plunger continuously engaged with said contactor member to effect such movements thereof with a snap action, and means including an auxiliary terminal member forming a pivotal support for said last mentioned contactor member.

13. In an electric snap switch mechanism, in combination, a pair of molded insulating members, a one-piece punched and stamped sheet .metal frame member to which said insulating sitioned within the respective pairs of alined pivot bearings, an operating member having a portion thereof reoiprocable within said frame, said frame coacting with said operating member to limit the degree of movement thereof in one direction, said operating member having a transverse passage formed therein, a pair of insulating plungers slidably positioned within said passage, a coiled compression spring plungers whereby the latter are continuously biased against the respective contactor members, a pair of combined contact and terminal members rigidly secured to one of said insulating members, said contactor members being jointly movable with a snap action into and out of'engagement with said contact members upon movement of said operating member in opposite directions respectively, and said last mentioned insulating member having a part formed integrally therewith to limit the degree of movement of said operating member in the opposite direction and to limit the degree of disengaging movement of each of said contactor members.

14. In an electric snap switch mechanism, in combination, a pair of molded insulating mem-- bers, a one-piece punched and stamped sheet metal frame member to which said insulating members are rigidly secured in spaced relationship to each other, said frame having two pairs of alined pivot bearings formed therein, a pair of punched and stamped sheet metal contactor members each having a pair of integral lugs positioned within the respective pairs of alined pivot bearings, an operating member having a portion thereof reoiprocable within said frame, said frame coacting with said operating member ,to limit the degree of movement thereof in one direction, said operating member having a transverse passage formed therein, a pair of insulating plung ers slidably positioned within said passage, a coiled compression spring interposed between said plungers whereby the latter are continuously biased against the respective contactor members, a pair of combined contact and terminal members rigidly secured to one of said insulating members, said contactor members being jointly movable with a snap action into and out of engagement with said contact members upon movemerit of said operating member in opposite directions respectively, said last mentioned insulating member having a part formed integrally therewith to limit the degree of movement or said operating member in the opposite direction and to limit the degree of disengaging movement of each of said contactor members, means comprising a coiled compression spring interposed between the other of said insulating members and a part of said operating member to bias the latter for movement in .the direction thereof first mentioned, and a manually operable insulating member associated with said operating member to effect movement thereof at will against the bias of said coiled compression spring last mentioned. 15. In combination, a one-piece. recessed.

molded insulation pistol grip, a one-piece molded insulation cap to be attached thereto, a snap switch mechanism insertable as a unit into the recess in said pistol grip, said switch mechanism including a spring-biased reciprocating operating element projecting laterally from said recess, a

interposed between said molded insulation trigger member having trunnions formed integrally therewith, said pistol grip having open pivotal hearings to accommodate said trunnions to provide for direct pivotal support of the latter by the former, said trigger member being connected with said reciprocating element to provide for operation of the latter against its bias upon manual movement of said trigger member in one direction, and said cap when attached to said pistol grip overlying said switch unit and said trigger trunniohs to positively retain the same in assembled relation to said pistol grip.

16. In combination, a one-piece, recessed, molded insulation pistol grip, a one-piece molded insulation cap to be attached thereto, a snap support of the latter by the former, said trigger member being connected with said reciprocating element to provide for operation of the latter against its bias upon manual movement of said trigger member in one direction, said cap-when attached to said pistol grip overlying said switch 'unit and said trigger trunnions to positively retain the same in assembled relatio to said pistol grip, said switch mechanism having an auxiliary stationary contact element common to one of the wiring terminals thereof, said auxiliary contact projecting beyond said pistol grip; a snap switch mechanism carried by said cap, said mechanism including a contactor movable into and out of engagement with said auxiliary contact, a pushbutton projecting at a predetermined angle from said cap and adapted when depressed to effect snapmovement of said contactor into engagement with said auxiliary contact, and a spring associated with said pushbutton to normally bias the same to its projected position to effect disengagement of said contactor from said auxiliary contact.

17. As an article of manufacture, a recessed molded insulation cap for a pistol grip, a switch mechanism carried by said cap, said switch mechanism including a combined wiring terminal element and frame formed of sheet metal attached to said cap within said recess, a contactor pivotally supported by said frame, a pushbutton having an enlarged portion positioned within said recess and a manually operable portion slidable through an opening in said cap at a. predetermined angle to the latter, spring means for normally biasing said pushbutton outwardly from said cap, said pushbutton having a cylindrical recess opening radially at a predetermined point in its length, an insulating plunger slidable within said last mentioned recess, acoiled compression spring interposed between the end wall of aid recess and said plunger to continuously bias the latter against said contactor, said plunger being movable by said pushbutton across the point of pivotal support of said contactor to effect snap movements of the latter in opposite directions respectively, and an auxiliary stationary contact carried by said pistol grip into and out of engagement with which said contactor is adapted to move.

18. In an electric switch, in combination, a

frame composed of punched and stamped sheet metal, said frame having parallel arm portions respectively cut away to form at each side of said frame a relatively large substantially rectangular notch, the lower ends of the side edges of said notches having relatively small notches opening thereto, a pair of punched and stamped sheet metal contactors each having a pair of pivot lugs formed integrally therewith, the lugs of each contactor being engageable with an alined pair of said relatively small notches in the opposite sides of the frame, an upper molded insulating member having a portion overlying said frame and secured thereto, said insulating member having an integral downward extension portions of which are adapted to fit snugly within said relatively large notches in the sides of the frame, said portions of said downward extension overlapping the open ends of all of said relatively small notches to effect closure of the latter, whereby said contactors are retained in pivotally assembled relation to said frame, said upper insulating member having an opening therethrough, a reciprocable member extending upwardly through said opening, a pair of insulating elements carrier. by said reciprocable member at the lower end thereof,

a spring common to said elements for biasing the same jointly into engagement with the respective contactors, said elements being simultaneously movable by said reciprccable member across the plane of pivotal support of said contactors to effect snap movements of the latter in opposite directions respectively, a lower insulating member underlying said frame and secured thereto, and a pair of stationary contacts carried by said lower insulating member and adapted to be simultaneously engaged or disengaged by said contactors.

19. In an electric snap switch mechanism, in combination, a pair of upper and lower insulating members, a frame composed of punched and stamped sheet metal to which said insulating members are rigidly secured in spaced relationship to each other, said frame having two pairs of alined pivot bearings formed therein, a pair of punched and stamped sheet metal contactor members each having a pair of integral lugs positioned within the respective pairs of alined pivot bearings, an operating member having a portion thereof reciprocable within said frame, said frame 'coacting with said operating member to limit the degree of movement thereof in one direction, said operating member having a transverse passage formed therein, a pair of insulating plungers slidaoly positioned within said passage, a coiled compression spring interposed between said plungers whereby the latter are continuously biased against the respective contactor members, a pair of combinedcontact andterminal members rigidly secured to said lower insulating member, said contactors being simultaneously movable with a snap action into and out of engagement with said contact members upon movement of said operating member in opposite directions respectively, and said lower insulating member having a part formed integrally therewith to limit the degree of movement of said operating member in the direction opposite to that first mentioned and to also limit the degree of disengaging movement of each of said contactor members.

ALVIN W. KRIEGER. 

